1. Computer Aided Design Design + Technology
What are the advantages of using CAD?
Assists the design process
Designs can be rotated and viewed from any angle
It is easy to visualise design variation with different colour, texture or materials.
It enables very accurate modelling
High quality visuals can be created to present design ideas to clients.
Reduced cost and time for developing designs
models can be easily modified and edited so that the time needed to develop a design can be reduced.
The need to make expensive/time consuming physical models is reduced.
Easy storage and transfer of information
Complicated drawings can be stored electronically and quickly modified later
Easily transported and transmitted electronically e.g. or cloud
Can be interfaced with machines like Laser Printers, 3D printers and CNC Routers
Computer Aided Design
Design + Technology

2. Computer Aided Design Design + Technology
What are the disadvantages of CAD?
During the design process
it can be difficult to get a sense of scale so it is not easy to tell if part are the right size.
CAD models are not as realistic as a physical model.
Some aspects of a design cannot be tested with CAD and a physical model is still needed.
Cost and time
The initial cost of equipment is expensive
It takes lots of time to learn how to use the software and continual training is needed
Computer Aided Design
Design + Technology